A recent exchange between a Gen Z and a Boomer highlights the generational divide over 1980s fashion and culture, sparked by the Disney+ series Rivals. The conversation begins with the Gen Z asking to raid the Boomer's wardrobe, only to be reminded of past criticism about dressing like a substitute geography teacher.
Fashion Then and Now
The Boomer recalls that their 80s budget was more Chelsea Girl than Ralph Lauren, referencing the high-end fashion seen in Rivals. Costume designer Ray Holman told Vogue that the outfits celebrate the 'real' 80s, drawing inspiration from icons like Sade and Naomi Campbell. Holman also accessed archives from Mulberry and Burberry, a far cry from the high street stores most people relied on.
While shoulder pads and power suits were ubiquitous, the Boomer notes that most people looked more like Sue Ellen from Dallas than glamorous TV characters. The Gen Z is unfamiliar with Sue Ellen, prompting a reminder of the famous line: 'Sue Ellen, you're a drunk. And a tramp. And an unfit mother!'
Office Life and Romance
The discussion turns to office politics and romance. Jilly Cooper, author of Rivals, said that in the 80s, 'everybody was having sex with everybody.' The Boomer admits that men were more forward then, but the reality often involved unwanted advances from colleagues like 'Handsy Dave' at the photocopier. The Gen Z, who posts Twitter rants about being called 'sweetheart,' finds this hard to reconcile.
The Boomer references Robert Crampton of The Times, whose 80s memories include 'the fashion, the music, the fags and booze,' but not constant hanky-panky: 'I missed out badly.'
Food and Party Culture
Waitrose has launched a Rivals range, but the Boomer is skeptical. The Gen Z mentions Angel Delight and Findus Crispy Pancakes, but the actual range includes Scotch egg sandwiches, steak Diane crisps, and peach Melba ice cream. The Daily Mail described the Scotch egg sandwich as 'revolting.'
Party culture is another point of contention. The Gen Z imagures Rupert Campbell-Black dancing to The Chicken Song at the village hall after winning re-election. The Boomer confirms that people did go out a lot, but mainly because home entertainment was limited to watching Bullseye on a tiny TV, and the pub was warmer than an unheated upstairs.
Drinking and Smoking
The Boomer recalls that drinking was more relaxed: 'Back then you could knock back four vinos at a work lunch and nobody alerted AA. You just sobered up with some ciggies at your desk.' The Gen Z laments having to vape in the loo like a criminal.
Despite the nostalgia, the Boomer insists that life wasn't a Cotswoldian melodrama. A Wham! cassette and a bottle of Blue Nun stolen from Mum's cupboard were every bit as fun.
The Gen Z concludes, 'I'm choosing to believe it was all bonking, boozing and bouffants. Three words: take me back.' The Boomer retorts, 'I never thought the day would come. A Gen Z wishing for a Tory Prime Minister and an overseas war...' The Gen Z protests, but the Boomer declares, 'Too late. You're in The Land Of Make Believe... The reality was more Dire Straits.'
